Saudi Culture Minister Prince Badr makes first official statement

In his first statement as Saudi Minister of Culture, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud vowed that the recently established Ministry of Culture will back cultural efforts in various fields.

“The mission of this ministry is to cater toward culture in all its fields. Culture is part of soft power which we hope to cultivate in service to country and national identity,” told Al Arabiya News Channel on Saturday.

“Our vision is, without a doubt, is part of the Saudi Vision 2030 and the ministry will be the main sponsor for all the advancement of culture in various fields, enhancing the Saudi and urban identities,” he added.

The minister also thanked Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in instilling their trust in him and the newly-appointed ministers.

“Our door are open to all, without a doubt, especially for the intellectuals who play a significant role; this is their ministry. We will seek to support and encourage them and continue to innovate and back their efforts,” the minister said.

He also spoke on the significant efforts the ministry will cater to back young talents. “We must support and encourage them with their creative efforts in all fields.”

Prince Badr is the governor of the Royal Commission for Al-Ula.

He is also a part of the 13 members of Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Culture’s (GCA) board which includes artists, filmmakers, executives and government officials. He is also chairman of the MiSK Art Institute.

Prince Badr was the chairman of the Saudi Research and Marketing Group.